Some info from the newsletter of the FBHVC re the re-bodying of vehicles and their subsequent registration following a recent meeting with the DVLA:
"Registration of historic vehicles
The DVLA leaflet INF 26, Guidelines for the Registration of Rebuilt or Radically Altered Vehicles and Kitcars, gives definitions for 'Radically Altered Vehicles' and 'Reconstructed Classics' and allocates a point score to the various major components of the vehicle. The chassis or monocoque bodyshell scores five points; suspension, both axles, transmission, and steering assembly all score two points each; the engine scores one point. If an already registered vehicle is radically altered then, provided it scores more than eight points, it may retain its original registration number. For a vehicle with a separate chassis, the body is not scored by the points system, so a new body should not affect the retention of the registration number.
However, for a vehicle where either there is no documentary evidence to claim the original number, or if the original number is unknown, then an age related number should be allocated assuming the criterion of 'Reconstructed Classics' is met. The definition is: 'Vehicles comprising genuine period components of the same specifications, all over 25 years old, will be assigned an age-related registration mark. The appropriate vehicle enthusiasts club must confirm the authenticity of the components'. I had assumed until now, that the period components were the major mechanical components in the radically altered points system. However, it appears that this may not strictly be the case. The consequence of this is that the installation of a new body prior to registration could mean that the vehicle is allocated a 'Q' plate. The principle is for 'genuine period components of the same specifications, all over 25 years old' should be used. It therefore follows that the vehicle should be registered with its existing 'over 25 years old' body still in place provided, of course, that it can meet the MoT requirements. Only when the vehicle is registered, should a body replacement be contemplated.
This particular case came to light because the owner passed to DVLA a receipt for what could be interpreted as being a new body. There has been another case where the DVLA local office has required that form V627/1, entitled 'Built Up Vehicle Inspection Report' is completed. This form requests receipts for replacement parts. It is perfectly understandable that if DVLA are given information they will take it into account when assessing the vehicle. The moral of this story is that if it is an age-related application, careful consideration needs to be given to how a vehicle and its documents, including the covering dating letter/certificate, are presented to a DVLA local office."
For those doing a major rebuild - thankfully not me :smash:
Season's greetings to all our readers :verycold: